Eugene Brantley Begins Tenure as Richmond County Sheriff

News Summary

Eugene “Gino” Brantley has officially taken over as Richmond County Sheriff in Augusta, replacing Richard Roundtree. With a focus on public safety and community engagement, Brantley plans to increase law enforcement presence during New Year’s celebrations and has proposed significant pay increases for deputies. He aims to address youth gun violence and improve relations between law enforcement and the community. This fresh leadership brings hope for a safer and more collaborative environment in Richmond County.

Exciting New Beginnings in Augusta as Eugene “Gino” Brantley Takes the Helm as Sheriff

Ah, Augusta! A city known for its vibrant culture and community spirit is ushering in a fresh start as Eugene “Gino” Brantley officially made his debut as Richmond County Sheriff at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. This marks a significant change for residents, as Brantley has taken over from Richard Roundtree, who served as sheriff for an impressive 12 years.

A Warm Welcome and Commitment to Safety

As Brantley took charge, he wasn’t shy about addressing the community. He focused on ensuring public safety and preparations for the New Year’s celebrations, aiming to keep everyone safe and sound during the festivities. With a pledge for an “increased and visible law enforcement presence” in downtown Augusta, residents can expect to see more friendly faces around, dedicated to ensuring everyone has a fantastic time.

Engagement and Collaboration

One of Brantley’s biggest promises is a hands-on approach. The sheriff and his command staff are gearing up to be actively involved in community events during New Year’s. By working closely with local police, emergency services, and event planners, they hope to address any issues promptly, making the celebrations as smooth and joyful as possible.

Plans for Expansion and Improvements

Looking ahead, Brantley has laid out an ambitious transition plan that includes bringing on board around 100 new employees. An impressive 70% of these new hires will be certified officers, while the remaining staff will be non-sworn officers, bringing a fresh perspective to the department. Recruitment, hiring, and retention have been major focuses for Brantley, as he aims to tackle any discontent lingering from the previous administration.

A Smooth Transition for Everyone

Brantley has reported a commendable transition from Roundtree, with meetings held to ensure everything is humming smoothly. His efforts attracted former officers from regional districts, including 21 from the Marshal’s office, alongside several from Burke County, as well as dedicated officers from both Georgia and South Carolina. Brantley is keen on retaining the good officers already in the department, despite potential turnover that often accompanies a change in leadership.

Big Changes in Pay Structures

One of Brantley’s notable proposals is a substantial pay raise for deputies, pushing starting salaries up from $50,000 to an impressive $56,400 annually. Jailers will also see a boost in their starting pay, rising from $41,000 to $51,258. Adding to this, there are plans to introduce stipends for certified employees based on their years of service, providing additional support for those who’ve dedicated many years to the force.

Addressing Youth Gun Violence

In the first 100 days of his new role, Brantley is setting his sights on tackling youth gun violence, an issue close to many residents’ hearts. He’s aiming to establish a task force and launch mentorship programs that can take root in the community. A comprehensive audit of the Sheriff’s Office is also on the to-do list, alongside community outreach to enhance morale within the department.

Future Goals and Community Trust

While Brantley is eager to enhance the response to alarm calls within the community, he has cautioned that full improvements might take up to six months. The newly appointed command staff includes Chief Deputy Robert Sams and Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard, all of whom are ready to implement Brantley’s vision of community-oriented policing.

Looking Ahead

Brantley couldn’t be more thrilled about returning to the sheriff’s office after eight years spent with the Marshal’s Office. As major events approach, like the Masters in April, Brantley is keenly aware of the need for robust security measures and is eager to foster an environment of trust between law enforcement and the community.

As this new chapter unfolds for Augusta, residents can look forward to increased engagement, improved safety measures, and a community-focused approach under Sheriff Eugene “Gino” Brantley’s leadership. Here’s to a fresh start, filled with promise and a stronger sense of safety for everyone in Richmond County!